THE KING'S MIRROR 177 



in a sense, stewards of the realm, if they observe the 

 customs that are suited to their title^They should be 

 chosen from all classes and not from wealthy or dis- 

 tinguished families only;]but those who are chosen to 

 this dignity should be perfect in all things, both in an- 

 cestry and wealth, and in nobility of mind and courtesy, 

 but above all in conduct. They ought, furthermore, be- 

 fore all others to observe righteousness in every form, 

 so that they may be able to discern clearly what should 

 be loved as belonging to honor and good deportment I 

 and what should be shunned as leading to dishonor ano/ / 

 shamejFor wherever they are present, the eyes of all 

 men are turned upon their manners and behavior; all 

 incline their ears to their words; and all expect, as they 

 ought, to find them so much more excellent than other 

 men in deeds and deportment as they stand nearer the 

 king in service and regard than his other men. And if 

 these men wish by right to enjoy the titles which are 

 given them along with the housecarle name, they must 

 shun vii1ftfl.n'ty pnr| r i]ffcnpgg; they must also, more than 

 other men, avoid many things which a foolish^ desire 

 might suggest. For many things become a disgrace both 

 in words and deeds to well-bred men, which are not a 

 disgrace to the vulgar who behave in that way; where- 

 fore such men must keep watch over their tongues and 

 their behavior. 



It also frequently happens that well trained envoys 

 from other lands come to visit the king and his court; 

 and the more polished they arelthe more carefully they 

 observe the royal service as well as the manners of the 

 king and his courtiers and all the customs that prevail 



